Vaccinations
Vaccinations protect your puppy or kitten against serious, sometimes fatal infectious diseases. Puppies can have their first vaccination from 6 weeks of age, and kittens from 8 weeks.
Until your pet has finished their full first course of vaccinations, they're not fully protected. Keep puppies away from high-risk places like dog parks and popular walking tracks until then.
See our Vaccinations page for the full schedule.
Worming
Puppies and kittens can pick up worms from their mother or their surroundings. A pet with a lot of worms may grow poorly, look thin with a pot belly, or pass worms in their poo. Our vets and dispensary team can recommend the right wormer for your pet. Give it as often as the manufacturer recommends, based on your pet's weight.
Fleas
Fleas feed on blood, so a lot of fleas can make a small puppy or kitten anaemic and very unwell. They can also spread tapeworm. Monthly flea treatments are easy to apply and work well.
Nutrition
Good nutrition helps your puppy or kitten grow strong bones and muscles.
- Feed three small meals a day until six months of age.
- Keep them on a puppy or kitten food until 12 months of age.
- Choose a good-quality commercial puppy or kitten food and follow the feeding guide.
- Avoid home-cooked food and adult food, which may not have the right balance of nutrients.
- Go easy on treats, especially fatty ones, to keep your pet at a healthy weight.
Socialisation
Early play and socialisation help shape how your puppy gets on with people and other dogs for life. Start early, even before vaccinations are finished, but in safe places: at home with vaccinated pets you know, or at a puppy school with vaccination rules, like our Puppy Preschool.